Home Inspections
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. It is one of the most important things a buyer can do to ensure that the home purchase is a good buy that won’t cost a lot of money and cause stress.
Inspectors should cover at least the following: foundation, walls, roof, insulation, windows, doors, kitchen, bathroom, laundry, water heater, furnace, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical systems, plumbing, and outdoor areas. They should also look at do-it-yourself projects, making sure, for instance, that ceiling fans are installed correctly and backyard decks are safe. Even new construction should be inspected.
A qualified home inspector can be an extremely valuable resource, especially for first-time home buyers. During your home inspection, take full advantage of your inspector’s expertise and ask as many questions about your home as you can. The knowledge you’ll gain during your inspection will come in handy long after you’ve unpacked the last box.
The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and the National Association of Home Inspectors, Inc. (NAHI) provide education, training, and certification for home inspectors.
Find inspectors in your area by visiting www.homeinspector.org or www.nahi.org.
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